Garden Tomb

The Garden Tomb was much more what we had pictured in our minds as the place of Jesus' burial. Although most scholars do not believe this is the actual site of his burial, it was acquired by some English people in 1894 who had a vision to keep it as a sacred and quiet place for worship. When were were there in 1998, however, there were dozens of groups holding worship services within close earshot of each other, so it was not especially quiet.

The Garden Tomb is a typical rich man's tomb from the time of Jesus. Just outside the door is a ridge where a large stone would have been rolled in front of the door. Inside to the left, a 9'x9' weeping chamber was carved out of the rock for the mourners. To the right is space enough to bury three people.

An inscription on the door proclaims, "He is not here. He is risen."